The apostle Paul had a strong commitment to know and serve
Jesus Christ. His passion and love for the Lord was obvious—Jesus was always
central in his thinking, whether he was working as a tentmaker, preaching to
the crowd, or even sitting in prison. What fueled his love for the Savior?
Paul’s conversion experience on the road to Damascus was a
motivating force in his life. Grateful for the gift of grace he had received at
salvation, the apostle told many people about his encounter with the
resurrected Christ and its impact on him. We, too, have a story to tell of
God’s mercy, both in saving us and in giving us new life in Him.
Paul’s zeal also came from his firm conviction that the
gospel message was true and available to everyone (John 3:16). On the cross,
Jesus took all our sins—past, present, and future—upon Himself (1 Pet. 2:24).
He suffered our punishment so that we might receive forgiveness and be brought
into a right relationship with God. Through faith in Christ, we’ve been born
again, and the indwelling Holy Spirit helps us every day (John 14:26). The more
we understand what Jesus has accomplished on our behalf, the greater will be
our passion to share the gospel.
Developing a vibrant faith requires time and energy plus a
commitment to obey the Lord. Regularly studying the Bible will strengthen your
beliefs and give you courage to speak. Caring about the spiritual welfare of
others will move you into action. Do you have a passion to serve Jesus wherever
He leads?
Thought for today:
Am I obedient to the word and direction of God?
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